Think EVs are dull? The Peugeot E-208 GTI will change your mind
Tim Pitt drives the new electric Peugeot E-208 GTI hot hatch. Can it rekindle the spirit of the classic 205 GTI? Europe’s car companies are increasingly looking backwards to move forwards. Retro styling, which began as a bit of a gimmick with the Volkswagen New Beetle in 1998, is now melded into the mainstream. Take [...]
The Peugeot E-208 GTI is an electric hot hatch that aims to bring back the spirit of the classic 205 GTI. Europe’s car manufacturers are increasingly looking back in time to move forward, with retro styling becoming mainstream. Peugeot's heritage dates back to 1896, with the 205 GTI being the most revered car in its recent history.
The E-208 GTI features a 54kWh battery, 281hp, a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds, and a starting price of £33,495 (after the £1,500 Electric Car Grant). It shares some design elements with the classic 205 GTI, including red go-faster stripes and model badges on the C-pillars, a gloss black splitter, roof spoiler, and aerodynamic diffuser.
Inside, the E-208 GTI boasts red carpets, scarlet upholstery, and supportive front seats with perforated leather and grippy Alcantara trim. The interior also features a 3D driver's display and dedicated GTI performance readouts. Despite its heavier weight (1,535kg), the E-208 GTI offers a more modern and spacious interior compared to the 205 GTI while maintaining a compact size and strong performance.
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